The Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Act establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for dietetics and nutrition in New Mexico, including new definitions and licensure requirements for dietitians and nutritionists. It mandates that individuals must possess a valid license to provide medical nutrition therapy, while also creating exemptions for certain healthcare providers. The Act establishes a Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Advisory Board to oversee its implementation and compliance, detailing the qualifications necessary for licensure, which include educational requirements, supervised practice experience, and examination criteria.

This bill introduces several significant provisions, such as an expedited licensure process for dietitians and nutritionists with valid licenses from other jurisdictions, requiring the Department of Regulation and Licensing to process these applications within thirty days. It also allows for the issuance of provisional permits to applicants who have met educational and supervised practice requirements, enabling them to practice under a licensed professional while awaiting full licensure. Additionally, the bill outlines new continuing education requirements for license renewal, specifies grounds for denial or revocation of licenses, and sets a deadline for the transfer of responsibilities from the nutrition and dietetics practice board to the regulation and licensing department by July 1, 2025. The bill repeals previous sections related to the nutrition and dietetics practice board and establishes a nutrition and dietetics fund to support the administration of the Act.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 24-25-3